Share Six | Abstract

June’s theme over at Share Six is abstract.  Those of you who know me personally as a photographer know that I am a portrait photographer.  This is what I love though about being part of a photography group that does themed challenges like this.  This group of gals is constantly stretching me and helping me grow.  If you are a photographer and haven’t taken part in these monthly challenges or any other challenges, I highly encourage you to do so.  You will find that it’s very fun and you learn a lot, therefore your skills improve.

As I said, abstract is not something I’ve really even dabbled in.  So I was really racking my brain trying to figure out what I was going to photograph.  It dawned on my that I could use intentional camera movement to make ordinary objects become abstract.  I haven’t even really played with intentional camera movement either, but what better time than now?

For my first image, I waited until later in the evening.  I knew because of using a slow shutter speed I’d need less light.  I pointed my camera up at some trees.  When I pushed the shutter button, I twisted my camera creating the swirl.

For my next image, I just pointed at some grass (still in the evening when it was getting dark) and moved the camera a bit as I pressed the shutter.

For my third image, I actually shot it during the middle of a bright sunny day.  I pointed up at a tree. I shot at ISO 100 and f/29 and 1/2 sec. shutter speed.  I used my 28-135 and started wide, but zoomed as I pressed the shutter.

My fourth image was the same technique.  This was a picture of the pond behind our yard.  This is one of my favorites of the set. Who knew I’d like intentional camera movement and zooming so much?

For my last two, I waited until after dark and headed to the carnival/fair that happens to be in town right now.  I wanted to do some light painting, and I once again used a slow shutter speed and intentional camera movement.

For this first one, I just left the shutter open and moved my camera all around.

For this second one, I held the camera still for a second so I could get the ferris wheel somewhat defined, then moved the camera in a wave pattern.

I hope you enjoyed my interpretation on the theme abstract.  I have to say, I had a lot of fun playing around getting these images.  I hope you will too! Get out and have fun creating art!  First though, continue through our circle to see Janet’s blog.  You won’t be disappointed!